The Courthouse Pub
Manitowoc, WI

Early in the restoration process, inspectors found rotted beams and sills. The owner decided to tear down the existing structure and build a new one that looks exactly like the old one. Bamco Architects of Manitowoc came to Larson Engineering for the structural design because this building presented some challenges. Our team of skilled designers was able to consider the needs of the Owner and the architects, the challenges of the building and site and pull them together into one award-winning design.

Larson Engineering's design team took the different construction systems—steel framing, wood trusses, glue-laminated beams, masonry walls and concrete foundations—and made them work together in this historic building. Two areas in particular, were a challenge to Larson Engineering's design team. Because the Owner wanted a rustic-looking pub area, our team recommended glue-laminated beams and tongue-in-groove roof decking. This met the Owner’s aesthetic requirements and cost limitations, as well as code requirements for strength and safety. Another design challenge was the dining area, because of its great height compared to its relatively small square footage. Larson Engineering's solution was to use the combination of a reinforced wood shear wall and a steel moment frame to meet the lateral load requirements.

This building, though brand new, looks old. It was creatively rebuilt and showcases Larson Engineering's depth of knowledge about special projects and ability to balance the aesthetic with the necessary. The American Institute of Architects-Wisconsin Chapter gave this project a Merit Award, the association’s second highest honor.